Australia name Ahmed in West Indies, Ashes squad

Fawad Ahmed could make his Test debut for Australia after the former asylum seeker's strong Sheffield Shield form saw him included in the touring squad to play West Indies and contest the Ashes.

Ahmed - an Australian citizen since 2013 after fleeing Pakistan three years prior - pipped youngster Ashton Agar as Australia's second spinner for the upcoming tour, with Nathan Lyon expected to be first choice in the West Indies and England.

National selectors could not ignore 33-year-old Ahmed, who claimed a competition-high 48 wickets, including an eight-wicket haul as Victoria won the Sheffield Shield final last week.

Australia have also rewarded Adam Voges and Peter Nevill for their strong domestic form.

West Australia captain Voges, 35, comes into the squad at the expense of Joe Burns after scoring the most runs in the Sheffield Shield - 1358 at an average of 104.46 in 11 matches.

New South Wales wicketkeeper Nevill will be Brad Haddin's understudy after receiving the nod ahead of Matthew Wade.

Australia's squad will increase from 16 to 17 by the time the Ashes starts in July, with veteran paceman Ryan Harris to miss the two-Test series in the West Indies due to the birth of his first child.

"The Test team has performed very well in recent times, but the big challenge is to do that away from home," national selector Rod Marsh said in a statement.

"We believe this squad has sufficient depth for these important Test matches against the West Indies and England and will give us the best chance of success.

"Adam Voges and Fawad Ahmed had sensational seasons at domestic level and their performances just couldn't be ignored. They thoroughly deserve their call-up and the opportunity to be a part of this squad. We believe that both can play important roles in the side if required.

"Adam had one of the great seasons in Sheffield Shield history. He is an experienced player and quality character who will add talent and leadership to the touring party.

"Fawad has worked incredibly hard on his game and has demonstrated throughout the season that he can be a consistent wicket taker.

"Peter Nevill has been on our radar for some time and deserves his opportunity through weight of runs and performances behind the stumps. He has also demonstrated impressive leadership qualities which have caught our eye."

Australia start their two-Test series in the West Indies on June 5, while the Ashes gets underway on July 8.